There is a wonderland of nature at the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge.

 

If your plans for the summer or fall include a trip to the Alabama Gulf Coast, you’re no doubt looking forward to long days on the beach sunning and swimming in the surf. But, during your stay you might want to experience something a little different—a change of pace. How about taking a hike?

There are some amazing hikes out there only a short drive from Alabama’s sandy shores, all within an hour’s drive or less. Here are some of the best you should check out.

1. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

Only 10 miles west of the Gulf Shores Public Beach on Alabama Highway 180 there’s a wonderland of nature, the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. More than 6 miles of trails lead you through maritime forests teeming with birds and wetlands filled with brilliant wildflowers. When you hike through the refuge, be sure to walk the banks of Little Lagoon Lake and Gator Lake, where the water reflects the brilliant blue sky. Then, stroll along the sugary white sand of the Gulf beaches, where you’ll encounter dozens of species of sea birds, and it’s possible to observe endangered animal species like the loggerhead sea turtle.

2. Perdido River Trail

How about a day, or two, or more, on the Alabama Gulf Coast’s first backpacking trail? The Perdido River Trail parallels its namesake blackwater river for 20 miles as it meanders through beautiful, dark Atlantic white-cedar swamps. Occasionally, the trail visits white sandbars where you can enjoy lunch and swim in the cool water. Several trailheads along the route make it possible to do shorter day hikes of a few hours, or you can break the trip up into several different overnight backpacking treks. Trail shelters dot the trail and are available on a first-come, first-served basis, or you can camp on the sandbars at the shelter locations.

3. Betty and Crawford Rainwater Perdido River Preserve

Just south of the Perdido River Trail, on the Florida side of the river, you’ll find an impressive preserve managed by the Nature Conservancy. The Betty and Crawford Rainwater Perdido River Preserve includes footpaths and boardwalks that guide you through an incredible landscape with towering longleaf pines, rare panhandle lilies, sawgrass flats, and the amazing Black Lake, which is so still that it reflects a mirror image of the sky and the foliage that lines its banks.

4. Trout Point Nature Trail

Located on Naval Air Station Pensacola, the Trout Point Nature Trail is a 1.5-mile boardwalk with panoramic views of Big Lagoon and the fragile Gulf dune ecosystem. The path loops around white sand dunes that are so brilliant on cloudless summer days that you’ll need to wear sunglasses as you walk among them. As you meander through the dunes you’ll see wild rosemary, scrub oak, and a needlerush marsh with its deep root system that helps protect the shoreline from erosion. When you visit Naval Air Station Pensacola, go to the main gate, show your ID, and let them know you’re there to hike Trout Point.

5. Fort Pickens/Florida Trail

On this section of the Florida Trail at historic Fort Pickens, you’ll explore an interesting piece of the past and enjoy plenty of beautiful Gulf Coast scenery. The fort is the largest of four strongholds built to defend Pensacola from foreign (and later Yankee) invaders. Its history begins just after the War of 1812 and culminates with its service during World War II.

You can walk a long way on the Florida Trail, but here, along the western end of Gulf Islands National Seashore, you can do a nice 2.2-mile, out-and-back stretch from WWII’s Battery Worth to the fort itself. During the walk you’ll take a sandy footpath through wetlands, pass peaceful bayous, and make a little side trip to the banks of Pensacola Bay.

6. Naval Live Oaks

Another great historical hike along the Gulf Islands National Seashore in Florida can be found at Naval Live Oaks. This 1,300-acre preserve was the site of the first national tree farm back in 1828 when the U.S. Navy needed the wood for its fleet.

You can combine several paths in the preserve for a 6-mile hike that includes the Old Borrow Pit Trail, the Beaver Pond Trail, and the Andrew Jackson Trail, where the famous general marched his troops during the War of 1812.

7. Big Lagoon State Park

As you hike Big Lagoon State Park’s 5 miles of trails you’ll traverse a wetland lined with wildflowers, visit the banks of Long Pond and Grand Lagoon, and pass through a forest of short sand pine, needlerush, and the gnarled trunks of sand live oaks. The journey brings you to the four-story Big Lagoon Observation Tower where you get a panoramic view of the park, the lagoon, and the Gulf. There is also a nice beach here where you can swim and cool off on those hot Gulf Coast summer days.

8. Garcon Point

Garcon Point sits on the tip of a peninsula that demarcates the waters of Blackwater Bay and East Bay just east of Pensacola. The highlight of the 1.7-mile loop hike is the diverse foliage, which includes longleaf pines, oak hammocks and prairie grasses that wave in the breeze. Keep your eyes peeled for rare carnivorous pitcher plants and sundews that bloom in and around small bogs.

9. Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park

Just across the border of Alabama and Florida is Tarkiln Bayou State Park, a 4,000-acre wet prairie habitat with more than 100 species of rare or endangered plants and animals. Along the park’s 7 miles of trails, you not only walk through wet prairies, but also cypress forest, pine seepage and pitcher plant bogs.

10. University of West Florida Dunes Preserve

If you just can’t get enough of the Gulf’s beaches, head to the UWA Dunes Preserve for a 3.4-mile (one-way) hike along the protective dunes. Once again, the trail is part of the Florida Trail and is located only 13 miles east of Fort Pickens, offering a nice walk along the beach and the perfect opportunity to end your day with a gorgeous sunset.

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Featured image provided by Alan Cressler

This rich ecosystem draws plenty of visitors during Alabama’s peak hiking and camping seasons.

Please note: due to local and state guidelines surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic, some information below may not be accurate. Before you travel and plan your next adventure, make sure to check each business/park/campsite for any closures or guidelines and for the most up to date information. Enjoy your winter adventure to the Sipsey Wilderness!

 

Alabama’s Sipsey Wilderness stands out in the Deep South as an anomaly of natural beauty and conservation. Hiking past hundred-foot rock faces, river canyons, hemlocks and countless waterfalls, you may think you are deep in Appalachia rather than northwest Alabama.

A little backstory on the Sipsey Wilderness: in 1975 it became the first designated wilderness area east of the Mississippi River. It now consists of roughly 25,000 acres within the larger Bankhead National Forest. The Sipsey River and several tributaries run throughout the diverse terrain, ranging from thick, brushy forest to river canyons to rocky ridgelines to hardwood swamp bottoms. Massive lime and sandstone rock formations—and the dozens of resulting waterfalls—are defining features of the Sipsey Wilderness.

This rich ecosystem draws plenty of visitors during Alabama’s peak hiking and camping seasons. But the environment of the Sipsey and its special combination of natural features also makes it a great destination for colder months. If you’ve only visited the ‘Sip in spring, summer or fall, here are several reasons you should consider visiting in winter.

 

You’ll Avoid Hot, Sweaty Conditions

Even if it is freezing cold, hiking and camping are much more enjoyable when you’re not sweating buckets from the very first step. Paul Gandy

 

As uncharacteristic as it may feel, the Sipsey is still in the heart of the South, and the humidity in late spring and summer often make it feel especially hot. But, by the time the leaves begin to turn, the humidity has usually dissipated and the temps stay cooler. Winter in northwest Alabama can be quite frigid at times; I have personally frozen my butt off by underestimating it before.

Even if it is freezing cold, hiking is much more enjoyable when you’re not sweating buckets from the very first step.

The other benefit of cooler temps is that you can fully take advantage of a campfire at night. In hot, humid months after a day of sweaty hiking, the thought of a campfire isn’t exactly comforting. But, in the winter a campfire is a source of rejuvenation, a makeshift community center of eating, laughing, and unwinding, not to mention warmth.

 

Fewer Nuisances

In the winter a campfire is a source of rejuvenation. Paul Gandy

 

In the Sipsey Wilderness, the only threats as far as wildlife are snakes, ticks, and mosquitoes. While mosquitoes are more of a nuisance than anything, they can certainly compromise your sanity on a long, summer hike. Of course, as the hot temps disappear with the onset of fall, the “skeeters” follow suit.

The activity from ticks also dissipates in the colder months, although they can be found year round. You should check yourself during and after any outing in the Sipsey, but at least in the winter, the little bloodsuckers should be scarce.

Snakes pose the most significant health threat to humans of any wildlife in the area, with three venomous species native to North Alabama: the copperhead, timber rattler and the water moccasin (aka the cottonmouth). During the warm months, constant vigilance for these snakes is paramount. However, they stay inactive during the winter months, so count snakes as something else you don’t have to worry about much in the winter.

 

Unobstructed Views

 

While they mostly affect the aesthetics of the wilderness, the leaves from trees (or a lack of them) can have a big effect on your Sipsey experience.

During the fall months, the Sipsey Wilderness brightens with every hue of yellow, red and purple, as the leaves of the deciduous trees and shrubs turn. But once they fall, visibility increases exponentially, and the forest takes on an entirely different aesthetic.

Because you can see farther in the woods, you can better appreciate the natural wonders the Sipsey has to offer. For instance, hiking south on trail 206 in the leafless hardwood bottom, you can see the towering rock formations like Ship Rock and the Eye of the Needle in the distance.

In the winter, the bare trees also allow good views of the many beautiful waterfalls in the wilderness, including favorites like Fall Creek Falls and Feather Creek Falls. Typically, waterfalls in the Sipsey are more impressive after a good rain, and the wilderness still receives enough occasional rainfall in winter to make the falls really crank.

Much of the Sipsey Wilderness was once logged, so it’s largely comprised of second-growth forest. However, there are some stands of old-growth timber in certain areas, including Buck Rough Canyon and the banks of the Sipsey River. These are rare havens for such trees, with untouched tulip poplars, beech, hickory, oak and even hemlocks growing to spectacular heights. With most of the leaves on the ground, it’s easy to make out where these old-growth stands start and end by obvious differences in tree height, circumference and breadth.

 

 

Many hikers come specifically to check out a large and renowned tulip poplar, known simply as “the Big Tree.” The regional icon stands more than 150 feet tall with a circumference that exceeds 26 feet. The Big Tree paired with the nearby 90-foot East Bee Branch Falls makes a great destination for an out-and-back hike.

The visibility in the winter also helps with navigation on the trail. As is the case with many Wilderness areas, the trails in the Sipsey have minimal signs and markers, putting a premium on being able to recognize landmarks.

Due to the tricky navigation, it’s a good idea to do your homework before a trip and compile maps and trail descriptions. As you begin planning a winter trek, be sure to check out the Sipsey Wilderness Hiking Club website for details on trails.

Wanting to get out and explore? Find what you need for your next winter adventure here. We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup! #BeOutdoors

Written by Thomas Lambert for RootsRated in partnership with Blue Cross Blue Shield of AL and legally licensed through the Matcha publisher network. Please direct all licensing questions to legal@getmatcha.com.

Featured image provided by Chuck Clark

By Cameron Sullivan

(Cameron Sullivan is a member of Alabama Outdoors’ eCommerce team and enjoys contributing his creative writing talents to our blog. He is also an avid trail runner and outdoor enthusiast.)

Trekking to a state’s highest peak often sounds like an arduous trip. In many states, that peak can soar from 6,684 ft. at Mount Mitchell in North Carolina to 14,417 ft. at Mount Rainier in Washington or 20,310 ft. at Mount Denali in Alaska. The peaks in many states are coveted destinations that take planning and skill to reach the top. The peak of Alabama, at Cheaha Mountain, is no different. 

At 2,413 ft. high, Cheaha Mountain, nestled in the heart of Talladega National Forest, ranks 35th out of the 50 highest peaks in the United States. It is often called “the Island in the Sky” due to the dense fog that often forms in the region. It is wedged in northeast Alabama towering over the southern tip of Cleburne County. From the peak, you actually can’t see much due to the blunt tip of the mountain and the forest that surrounds it, but from the iconic Bald Rock, you can stare across one of the most incredible views in Alabama and get a glimpse of the state from a literal birds-eye view. 

Cheaha State Park is truly a gem, just isolated enough for a quiet getaway, and accessible enough for a weekend with friends and family. And that’s where my journey begins, traveling to Cheaha with a group of four friends, as part of an ad-hoc bachelor party for my 1st anniversary of my wife and mine’s elopement after delaying our original wedding due to Covid. Hardly roughing it, we promised ourselves we’d hike the toughest trails and spend more time outside than indoors to make up for it.  

So what does it take to get the most out of your trip to the top?

Where to camp + what to bring

For some, a journey to Cheaha State Park could be a layover from thru-hiking the legendary Pinhoti Trail. For others, it could be a day trip or a weekend escape. No matter what trail you take there, you’ll want to stick around for a bit. Some of the biggest sites like Bald Rock, Pulpit Rock, the Observation Tower, and Cheaha Lake are worth a day’s adventure. Either way, you want to make sure you have the appropriate gear for where and how long you plan to stay.

Cheaha State Park offers various improved and primitive campsites, most with water and bathhouse facilities, or you can even rent a cabin. 

Improved and primitive campsites:

The primitive campsites are close to the front and can be driven to easily. Picnic tables, fire pits, and water spigots were abundant and the spots were well-groomed and maintained. Despite the heat, the primitive spots sported robust tree coverage and shrubbery which kept the spots private. Some even featured incredible views over the side of the mountain.

The rentals at Cheaha State Park include: 

• Rock cabins 
• Rooms at the hotel
• A-framed, fully renovated Chalets 

On our trip, we stayed in a two-bedroom chalet with 5 people, and fit comfortably. The chalet had a main living room with a tv and dining table, plus a kitchen, full bath, and two bedrooms. It even included an expansive porch where we spent most of our time. As a result, our gear needs were simple. We mostly packed food, drinks, games, and some essentials. 

From Alabama Outdoors, I rented two Nemo Astro sleeping pads and brought along two sleeping bags so myself and a friend could sleep comfortably on the floor. We spent two long nights on the porch playing card games lit by a Black Diamond Moji Lantern and some Black Diamond Headlamps. 

Gear for the trail:

When we hit the trails, I headed out in some well-worn Smartwool Light Hiking Crew Socks and trusty Keen Venture Mids, and carried everything in an Osprey Hikelite. And by everything, I mean a Hydro Flask 40oz Wide Mouth Bottle and 3 backup water bottles, plus a map and a portable fan. In an effort to pack light, I brought one pair of Patagonia Baggies that I wore almost the entire time. While all of our gear was for one full day of hiking, it was necessary. 

Cheaha State Park features over 10 miles of trails with various elevation changes and weather. So be sure to pack supplies like water, snacks, and sunscreen to stay safe. The essentials will ensure you get to enjoy everything the park has to offer.

What to do

So what is there to do in Cheaha? A surprising amount for such a small park.

Views at Bald Rock

The numerous trails are perfect for any level hiker, and the lookouts provide incredible views. Some of the easiest trails take you to cool spots like the Rock Garden or the Walter Farr Native American Relic Museum. Others take you to Bald Rock, Pulpit Rock, or even Cheaha Lake. Thru-hikers can even get on the Pinhoti Trail and mountain bikers can access a different set of cliff-side paths. Suffice to say, hiking and sightseeing are the main attractions here. 

Other activities include:

• Checking out the cliff-side pool.
• Did you bring your furry friend? Head to the dog park!
• Have a picnic or small get-together with a group at the pavilions.
  

Want to learn more about what we do on a weekend at Cheaha State Park? Check out how we got lost looking for a 1.2-acre lake, summitted Mount Cheaha, and found the best view of a sunset in Alabama. Read it all in my Definitive Guide to Cheaha: Part 2!

Find the best summer gear at Alabama Outdoors. We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup! #BeOutdoors

If you are just joining us, my name is Cameron Sullivan and I’ve been a team member at Alabama Outdoors for almost three years and today I’m talking more about Cheaha State Park.

Cameron Sullivan (center) exploring Cheaha Lake Trail with friends

In our last blog, The Definitive Guide to Cheaha Part 1, I went over where to camp, what to do, and what to bring with you for either a day or weekend getaway to Cheaha State Park. Follow along as I go more in depth on our weekend adventures at Cheaha State Park and the what to and what not to do’s.

So that’s where the journey begins, traveling to Cheaha with a group of four friends, as part of an ad-hoc bachelor party for my 1st anniversary of my wife and mine’s elopement after delaying our original wedding due to Covid. Hardly roughing it, we promised ourselves we’d hike the toughest trails and spend more time outside than indoors to make up for it. Let’s go!

Our travel through Talladega National Forest + check-in at Cheaha State Park

On the way out to Cheaha, you pass some incredible sights. From Talladega Superspeedway to the Coosa River, there’s plenty to enjoy on the drive. It’s about an hour and a half drive from Birmingham, going up I-20 to Oxford then heading down into the forest. 

With an elevation of 2,411 ft., a prominence of 1,444 ft. (how high above the other surrounding peaks), and an isolation of about 106 miles (its proximity to a similar-height peak), Mount Cheaha definitely stands out when you see it. 

Pulling off the highway, the mountain towers over some smaller peaks in the area. As you get closer you quickly go from suburban roads to county roads to a narrow mountain pass. The drive up takes you across a winding road about 10 miles from the town into the heart of the forest, and straight up to the park entrance. 

A rustic place built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the park has a distinct look. The vintage stonework and painted wooden buildings are nestled amongst cabins, forest pines, and dotted quartzite. When you get up to the top, you pull into a parking lot next to the mountain store to check-in. 

Going in mid-June, we left Birmingham at about 85 degrees and thick humidity, but Cheaha is alien as it’s somehow more humid and cooler at the top. It was about 60 degrees when we got there, and it’s the first thing you notice when you step out. The thick, brackish air makes you feel like you’re gulping down lake water. Like a lot of climates though, you quickly stop noticing. 

We checked in Friday night, at around 6, and perused the mountain store. The mountain store is incredibly well-stocked, with plenty of food, drinks, supplies, games, guides, gear, and more. We could’ve come with nothing but a credit card and still had a great time. So, with the last remaining sunlight, we checked into our chalet and enjoyed the sunset.

Our A-Frame Chalet home away from home

Driving through Cheaha you go up a one-way road around the park until you hit the chalets. Renovated chalets line the cul-de-sac with open grass and rocky yards separating them. The chalets have a stone walkway leading you from the parking spot to the abode, with an outdoor grill and firepit nearby. Inside, the chalet features two rooms on the side with a queen-sized bed and a full bathroom. The living room features a couch and chairs, plus a dining table and a TV. 

We were able to start up the grill and a fire thanks to the bundle of firewood we got at the mountain store. With night set in, we sat on the porch and stared up at the clouds floating by like they were 10 feet overhead. After turning in for the night, we woke up to an incredibly bright blue, clear sky. 

Cheaha Lake Trail

Venturing on Cheaha Lake Trail

Now, Cheaha has a lot of hiking options, and all of them are interesting thanks to the plentiful views and many sights to see. When mapping out our hike, we mostly went by what seemed most interesting at 9 am on an 85-degree day; the lake.

Cheaha Lake, a 6-acre artificial lake, isn’t that far away on the map. The Lake Trail is a 1-mile hike down the mountain, on the southwest side. For this hike, I came prepared with an Osprey Hikelite Daypack, Keen Venture Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots, some trusty Smartwool Medium Crew Hiking Socks, and a pair of Patagonia Baggies Shorts. We set out with a bevy of supplies, mostly water, snacks, and a portable fan, but quickly met our match. 

While the trail is well-marked, it’s steep and requires some scrambling over rocks. We found that we could get down, but weren’t always sure we could get back up. Eventually, we found ourselves on a cliffside, slightly lost, and not sure how to get back. On this cliff, we could see far out into the valley towards the forest and into Talladega proper. About halfway down the mountain, we still had a great view of the surroundings and stayed here at least an hour soaking it in. We enjoyed the view, decided against continuing down and started looking back. 

We almost immediately found the trail, but finding we had turned off, it may have been a minute before we realized we were lost. So, with a resurgence of energy, we headed back up to the peak. Despite our lack of success, this trail is certainly worth doing, especially in the morning when you’re guaranteed the daylight to get back up. The lake was still appealing, but our lack of water and trail map made it difficult to commit to. 

Bald Rock- a must visit for the panoramic views + handicap accessible

Cameron Sullivan (on left) with friends at Bald Rock

Back at the top, we refilled our waters and found the free trail map, ensuring we made it to our next destination; Bald Rock. This overlook is an iconic part of Cheaha State Park and features a boardwalk and parking area so it’s handicap accessible all year. 

Walking to it from the chalet was possibly the steepest hike we did the whole trip, climbing up the one-way road for half a mile. At the parking lot, we found a well-maintained boardwalk that goes all the way out to the overlook. With informative signs and shady rest spots the whole way, this is a must-see for anyone visiting the peak. 

The peak itself is incredible, with a literal birds eye view of the surrounding mountains it feels like you can reach out and touch the sky. Bald Rock remains an iconic part of Cheaha for a reason, it’s one of the most incredible views in Alabama.

The Observation Tower

Heading from Bald Rock, we decided to go back up to the front gate for lunch. Looking at the map, the road took us right past the actual peak of Cheaha Mountain, at the observation tower. Out of an abundance of curiosity, we decided to stop by as it’s fairly close to Bald Rock. 

Walking up, the heavy-looking stone building features an observatory next to some radio towers, with a pavilion across the street. As we walked up, the building was open to the public and led us into an air-conditioned and incredibly welcoming staircase, easily 15 degrees cooler than the outside. From the observatory, you can see over the mountain, with a view to the south that can’t be found anywhere else. 

The observatory is a nice rest-spot, but if you’re rushed it’s not worth sacrificing other sights for this spot. The nice thing is that the observatory is nestled in the middle of the primitive camping spot, so thru-hikers and campers will find it easy to stop by.

DO have a bite to eat at the Vista Cliffside Restaurant

From the observatory, we continued to the Vista Cliffside Restaurant. Trekking through the primitive campsites we were impressed with the layout and amenities each site had. From the primitive sites, it was a short walk to the Vista Cliffside Restaurant. 

Catching the sunset on the Lake Trail

When we arrived, we were greeted at a front desk where they took our orders and pointed us to the expansive dining room with a deck. The menu features grab-and-go classics like burgers, pizza, and hot dogs. We were able to order and sit in the air-conditioned dining room and wait. While I always appreciate a good burger, these were truly phenomenal. Far from a gross cafeteria, the Vista Cliffside Restaurant was arguably the best part of the hiking experience. Refreshing and rejuvenating, we were able to continue from here in good spirits.

You can find their menu here if that made you wanting to know more. Did we mention the views are spectacular here, too? It’s called Vista Cliffside for a reason.  

Final trip notes

From the restaurant, you can see the main resort, pool, the overlook, some of the cabins, and the Walter Farr Native American Relic Museum. Outside of the gate, this museum is a great place to learn the history of the Creek Nation that originally lived in the region, and look at some of the remarkable artifacts they’ve found in the area. 

From lunch, we journeyed back to our chalet for more water before heading back out. We finished the day heading out to the Rock Garden overlook, getting a clear view of the giant quartz pieces jutting out of the mountainside. We waited out on a nearby ledge until sunset.  

While we missed some of the landmarks like Pulpit Rock and the lake itself, the trip was unforgettable. From the incredible sights and sounds to the remarkably well-maintained park, everything was the perfect balance of remote, accessible, and beautiful. If you get the chance to visit this gem of a park, try and stay for a night or two. 

Safe and happy travels and always remember the 7 Leave No Trace Principles when you go out and explore our beautiful parks and public lands! 

Find the best summer gear at Alabama Outdoors. We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup! #BeOutdoors

A view from inside the massive Kinlock Shelter in the Bankhead National Forest.

 

In Alabama, history is all around you—especially in the wilderness. That trail you are walking may have been an old Indian path hundreds of years ago. Hidden just off the trail may be a cemetery dating back to the 1700s. That small, unassuming stone retaining wall nearby? It may have been built by hand by the Civilian Conservation Corps decades ago.

Here are five fun hikes in Alabama that each have a little hidden history along the way. The next time you hike one, perhaps bring along a friend, so you can wow them with your knowledge.

1. Cave Mountain

 

On the southern banks of Lake Guntersville near the dam that forms the lake is a small 34-acre piece of property protected by the Tennessee Valley Authority: the Cave Mountain Small Wild Area.

Cave Mountain has a fun little 1.4-mile lollipop loop hike that is filled with natural beauty: rocky climbs, tall bluffs, views of the lake, and a turtle filled tupelo swamp. It also has a backstory, in the form of the mountain’s namesake cave.

The trail is rocky and moderate in difficulty as it loops around then over the mountain just below 764-foot summit. At one point, the trail is wedged between a weeping rock bluff and a tupelo swamp teeming with birds and box turtles sunning themselves on logs. Before long, it winds up at the cave of Cave Mountain.

It is a quintessential cave opening — a neat, round hole in the rock wall that centuries ago was a small water channel. Widened by rain over the years, the cave at one time housed a huge population of bats, which disappeared in the mid-1850s. Their guano became a key ingredient of salt peter, which, when processed, was used during the Civil War to make black powder (the original gunpowder). During the war the Long Hollow Nitre Works Company began mining the guano driving the bats out. The workers would dig and carry out up to 1,000 pounds of the material a day by hand.

Hikers can peek into the cave, but unless you’re an experienced spelunker you shouldn’t venture in. The entrance tunnel goes back about 250 feet before the landscape turns pitch black, and then there is a dangerous vertical drop.

2. Kinlock Shelter

The trail leading to the Kinlock Shelter in the Bankhead National Forest is only one mile total out-and-back. But the steep climb down into a valley is well worth it for what’s at the bottom: the shelter itself.

Kinlock is part of the Kinlock Historic District, an area in which a plantation was established here near a spring in the 1800s. The shelter itself is a massive rock wall and cave that was used by Native Americans for centuries as a place of spiritual worship and ceremony. The cave itself is fascinating—but the walls really steal the show. Petroglyphs carved thousands of years ago adorn the sandstone surfaces. One depicts a turkey foot, a common bird found in the forest. You’ll also see a series of scratch marks where weapons and tools were sharpened.

Just a friendly reminder that Kinlock Shelter is a protected historic site. Due to its ceremonial significance, it should be treated with reverence.

3. Indian Tomb Hollow

 

Another fascinating historic site in the Bankhead National Forest is Indian Tomb Hollow. You’ll have to really work to get there, though: The 4-mile out-and-back trail is not blazed and requires intrepid hikers to cross several streams and scamper up a bluff line. For first-time visitors, the recommended way to get there is to join one of the many guided hikes scheduled through Wild South.

Along the way, you’ll see amazing geology and two significant historic features. The first are “marker trees”. Native Americans took young trees and bent them in such a way that when they grew they would point in a specific direction to indicate how to get to food, water, or a safe way out of the hollow.

The other highlight is Gillespie Cemetery. There are only three marked graves here, the oldest that of James Gillespie, a War of 1812 vet who was born in 1770 and died in 1849.

4. Ruffner Mountain Mines

 

Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve in Birmingham is well known among outdoor enthusiasts. But it’s surprising how many people never get off the preserve’s wide, main trail and explore the hidden treasures reflecting the area’s rich mining history. Travel about a half mile down the preserve’s backbone trail, the Quarry Trail, and turn off onto paths less travelled, the Crusher and Mine Ruins trails, for a trip back in time.

Depending on the route, the hike can be from 2.1 to 3 miles long and is moderately difficult. On these lesser traveled trails, you will find an abandoned mine that was opened by the Sloss Furnace Company in the late 1800s, stone foundations and retaining walls from the same period, and the real highlight of the trail: a huge steel iron ore crusher from around 1880. Workers would push carts carrying iron ore out of the mine on a tram to this crusher, which appears out of the forest like an ancient Mayan temple. Records show that in one year the workers here made 60 cents per car load.

5. Monte Sano Nature Preserve

 

The Land Trust of North Alabama has done an amazing job at protecting green spaces throughout the Huntsville area, and one of the best and the one with the most hidden historic treasures is the Monte Sano Nature Preserve.

More than 18 miles of trail with varying degrees of difficulty will take you to several historic sites that most people overlook when hiking the preserve. An easy walker is the 1.5-mile Old Railroad Bed Trail. Back in the 1800s, trains would chug along this route from the Huntsville Train Depot to the Monte Sano Hotel. You can still see remnants of trestle supports along the route.

There is also the 0.75-mile Waterline Trail, where the main waterline for the city ran from the 1950s; part of the waterline are still visible along the route. Other highlights include the Spring House, where settlers in the region built this stone building over a spring to store their perishable food items in sort of an early refrigerator, and the impressive Three Caves, a quarry that was mined for limestone from 1945 to 1955.

Find your favorite Fall gear at Alabama Outdoors. We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our free shipping on orders over $69.99 or free in-store pickup! #BeOutdoors

Featured image provided by dmtilley

Being in nature reduces stress, increases pleasant feelings and well- it’s just good for the soul. So if you’d like to spend some time in the great outdoors around Florence for Mother’s Day weekend, here are some ideas!

Exploring the outdoors near Florence:

Nearby day adventures

• Wichahpi Commemorative Stone Wall in Florence is a must visit and an even better activity for a nearby Mother’s Day adventure. Why? Well, a local man named Tom Hendrix spent over 30 years building a stone wall in memory of his great grandmother and her journey on the Singing River. We recommend reading further before you visit as the story is powerful and will make the visit that much better. Visitors have expressed the wall is healing and peaceful.

• The TVA (Tennessee Valley Authority) Rockpile Trail is a 2.67 mile out and back trail in Muscle Shoals that runs along the Tennessee River. This is very accessible but rated as moderate so be prepared with the right shoes! If Mom loves hiking she will love this, plus the waterfalls make this hike even better!

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: Aftco Women’s Ladyfish Shorts will take her from the trails to the water, and out for a local bite afterwards. Made from durable Nylon with UPF 50 sun protection and quick-drying DWR, these shorts are made for it all. 

Overnight + weekend excursions 

• Dismals Canyon is a hidden Alabama gem and popular bucket list item for Alabamians and other travelers. Located in Phil Campbell, AL this National Natural Landmark is a sandstone gorge filled with diverse plant life and wonder. There is a 1.5 mile hiking trail, Rainbow Falls, and the best of all- Dismalites. Dismalites are larvae that glow fluorescent blue at night to attract food, and the canyon offers night hikes to see them glow. Dismals Canyon also has stunning campsites and cozy cabins if your Mom prefers glamping. On site there is also a soda fountain, and a spa to treat Mom to during your stay.

• McFarland Park is an easy staycation + getaway as it is located right in Florence on the shores of the Tennessee River. McFarland park has 60 campsites, fishing piers, jogging trails, and more! This river-front home for the weekend will be fun for the whole family without going too far. So set up your camping site and enjoy a sunset on the river while lounging by the fire.

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: Birkenstock Women’s EVA Arizona Sandals are made for adventures and will be her go-to all season long. Made from a high-quality, odor-neutral EVA foam, these sandals are easy to clean, lightweight enough to float, and the perfect slip-on for the river or the campsite. 

Interested in a weekend of urban outings in The Shoals this Mother’s Day? We have what to do + where to eat in Florence. Check out our ideas here.

How about the best of both worlds? These ideas will get you enjoying nature while in the city of Florence + give you time for more activities. Check out our ideas here.

Get Mom something she will love to go with your fun-filled weekend or to show her you care from far away! Click here for the Top Gifts this Mother’s Day. We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup! #BeOutdoors

Being in nature reduces stress, increases pleasant feelings and well- it’s just good for the soul. So if you’d like to spend some time in the great outdoors around Mobile or dig your toes in the white sandy beach for Mother’s Day weekend, here are some ideas!

Exploring the outdoors in Lower Alabama:

Nearby day adventures

• If you’re looking for a state park adventure near Mobile, head to Blakely State Park in Spanish Fort. This state park encompasses over 2,100 acres of diverse land and wildlife. With 10 miles of designated bike trails, horseback riding, more than 20 miles of hiking trails, kayaking, and more, there is plenty to choose from for you day adventure. If you find yourself over planning, Blakeley State Park also offers camping sites and cabin rentals if you want to make a weekend out of it! There are many scenic lookouts to catch a stunning sunset, too!

• Take Mom to a hidden Alabama gem. Down in Gulf Shores, AL you will find a real treasure and something different to explore if you do not want to spend the whole day on the beach. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge is a 7,157-acre National Wildlife Refuge with a beautiful environment and “safe harbor” for birds, endangered wildlife, and plant life. There are 4 main hiking trails in the refuge so you can choose how long you want to spend at the refuge. There is also a kayak launch if Mom wants to kayak or paddleboard. Note that your pets must stay at home for this adventure!

• Another nearby day adventure is Chicksasabogue Park located in Eight Mile, AL. With 1,100-acres and about 17 miles of hiking and biking trails, this park will keep you trekking all day long. There is a wide variety of outdoor activities including disc golf, fishing, swimming, and camping! So if you want to go on a family hike + swim nearby Mobile- this is just the place to go!

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: Aftco Women’s Ladyfish Shorts will take her from the trails to the water, and out for a local bite afterwards. Made from durable Nylon with UPF 50 sun protection and quick-drying DWR, these shorts are made for it all. 

Overnight + weekend excursions 

• Gulf State Park is a great weekend getaway for all to enjoy. Located in Gulf Shores, AL this state park boasts 6,500 acres comprised of white sandy beaches, butterfly gardens, lakes, and miles of hiking and biking trails. How many state parks can tell you it has hiking trails in the outdoors AND the beach? With primitive camping, campgrounds, and cabins, you can pick the perfect weekend getaway. Do not miss out on Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail which has 7 different trails systems and 6 different ecosystems! Better yet- when the day is done you can watch the sunset on the beach or dock. 

• Is Mom more of a relax and read while sinking her toes in the white sandy beach type of mom? If so, then treat her to a beach getaway to Gulf Shores Beach or Orange Beach. With plenty of nearby attractions including Gulf State Park and Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, the family will not be bored. Either camp at the state park or rent a VRBO to relax and soak in the sun.

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: Birkenstock Women’s EVA Arizona Sandals are made for adventures and will be her go-to all season long. Made from a high-quality, odor-neutral EVA foam, these sandals are easy to clean, lightweight enough to float, and the perfect slip-on for the beach or the campsite. 

Interested in a weekend of urban outings in Mobile this Mother’s Day? We have what to do + where to eat in Mobile. Check out our ideas here.

How about the best of both worlds? These ideas will get you enjoying nature while in the city limits of Mobile + give you time for more activities. Check out our ideas here.

Get Mom something she will love to go with your fun-filled weekend or to show her you care from far away! Click here for the Top Gifts this Mother’s Day. We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time.

While you are in town be sure to visit our Mobile store or any of our locations to get your weekend essentials!  #BeOutdoors

Mother’s Day weekend is upon us and you want to plan a fun adventure. Are you interested in getting outdoors without getting too far off the beaten trail? Below we have highlighted some of Florence’s scenic strolls, local parks, and where to enjoy a local bite to eat after!

Florence outings that offer the best of the city + nature:

Stroll through a rustic paradise at one of Florence’s local parks

• Deibert Park in Florence, AL is a tranquil park with walking trails and a picturesque pond. So pack a blanket, stay awhile, enjoy the view and company. Either plan a picnic or afterwards take her to lunch at Sweet Basil Alabama for a tasty local bite.

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: The Hoka One One Women’s Clifton 7 is not your typical running shoe. These shoes feel like marshmallows, will give her support all day long and are as stylish +vibrant as her. She will adore you and them.

Plan a picnic at the park 

• Deibert Park listed above is also a fantastic park for a picnic! With plenty of green space to get comfortable and wonderful views of the pond, we can’t think of a more serene place to have a picnic.
  
  
• Wilson Park in downtown Florence is known to the locals as the site for “Music in the Park” and other events. This Mother’s Day, change it up and pack a picnic, sit at the park, and enjoy the flowing fountain!

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: The Yeti Roadie 24 is a perfect gift for Mom. Give her the cooler as a gift, once she opens it- tell her you have the day planned, pack the cooler with her favorite bites and have a picnic at the park! 

 Get some light exercise in at a popular Florence urban trail + park

• Wildwood Park is located just minutes from downtown Florence. While known for its mountain bike trails, the park also has good walking/hiking trails for all to enjoy its beauty. The park also runs alongside Cypress Creek which is perfect for canoeing and kayaking if that is more of Mom’s speed.

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: She will love Free Fly Women’s Breeze Shorts anywhere she goes this summer. With ultra-soft bamboo lining, these lightweight and moisture-wicking shorts are perfect for all-day adventures. They are also super flattering and cute!

Interested in a weekend of urban outings in The Shoals this Mother’s Day? We have what to do + where to eat in Florence. Check out our ideas here.

Would you rather explore the outdoors, learn about Dismals, or sleep under the stars near Florence? Check out our ideas here.

Get Mom something she will love to go with your fun-filled weekend or to show her you care from far away! Click here for the Top Gifts this Mother’s Day. We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup! #BeOutdoors

There is a good chance that the moms in your life have gone above and beyond this last year. This year, plan a staycation or quick getaway weekend to Mobile, AL, and give her the R&R she deserves! 

From urban explorations in Mobile to adventures in the great outdoors, at the beach, and in between, here are some of our favorite places to explore and ideas for a fun Mother’s Day weekend in & around Mobile and Lower Alabama. Pick and choose a few to make the perfect weekend that she will love!

Urban Outings in Mobile:

Does yoga or brunch sound fun to you and the mom in your life? How about wandering around the local farmers market and showing off your culinary skills? Click here to read our full blog on Urban Outings in the Mobile this Mother’s Day weekend and where to go. 

• Plan a farmers market theme day

• Eat local at a Mother’s Day Brunch

• Start the day with yoga + the spa

• Support local artisans and businesses

• Relax and enjoy a sunset + picnic over the city

Would you rather explore the outdoors near Mobile or hit up the beach?

Looking to get out of the city for the day, or the weekend? Being in nature reduces stress, increases pleasant feelings and well- it’s just good for the soul. So if you’d like to spend some time in the great outdoors for Mother’s Day weekend or stick your toes in the sand, here are some ideas! If this sounds great to you– click here to read on.

• Day hike with ocean views + wildlife

• Beach getaway

• Overnight + weekend excursions

Ideas that offer the best of both worlds near Mobile:

Want to get outside without getting too far off the beaten trail? Here are a few ideas that will deliver the outdoors that you want, close to home. Click here to check out some of Mobile’s scenic strolls, local parks, and where to enjoy a local bite to eat after!

• Stroll amongst the flowers + nature the local gardens

• Plan a picnic at the park

• Get some light exercise in on a nearby nature trail

Get Mom something she will love to go with your fun-filled weekend or to show her you care from far away! Click here for the Top Gifts this Mother’s Day. We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time.

While you are in town be sure to visit our Mobile store or any of our locations to get your weekend essentials!  #BeOutdoors

Being in nature reduces stress, increases pleasant feelings and well- it’s just good for the soul. So if you’d like to spend some time in the great outdoors around Birmingham for Mother’s Day weekend, here are some ideas!

Exploring the outdoors near Birmingham:

Nearby day adventures

• Red Mountain State Park is located just 10 minutes outside of Downtown Birmingham. There are 15+ miles of nature trails to explore, treehouses with amazing views, and oversized wooden chairs to take a break on and snap some fun photos. Not only that, but the pups love it too as they have a dog park on the grounds!

• Ruffner Mountain is a local Nature Preserve also located about 10 minutes from central downtown with over 14 miles of trails. This is a fan favorite due to its proximity and overlooking views of the city. When the season is just right, this is a perfect sunset hike location.

• Moss Rock Preserve is another Nature Preserve located in Hoover, AL with 349 acres of forest systems, large rock outcroppings, streams, wildlife, and waterfalls! Pack a blanket, some chairs, or a hammock and relax listening to the sounds of nature. When you are finished, head across the street to the community of the Preserve for mouth-watering pizza at Vecchia or tacos you will dream about at Moss Rock Tacos + Tequila (all kid-friendly).

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: Aftco Women’s Ladyfish Shorts will take her from the trails to the water, and out for a local bite afterwards. Made from durable Nylon with UPF 50 sun protection and quick-drying DWR, these shorts are made for it all. 

Overnight + weekend excursions 

• Oak Mountain State Park is a 940-acre park in Pelham, AL with endless options of adventures for the whole family. With cabin and campsite rentals and plenty of activities, this is the perfect park for a weekend getaway. There are over 50 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails that are sure to keep you trekking along all weekend. For a breathtaking excursion, go check out Peavine Falls, a 65-foot waterfall along the trails. Set up a hammock and chill. Other park activities include picnic facilities, a demonstration farm, and more. When the sun is out, head to the lake where there is a beach to catch some rays as well as kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals for some fun! As we said, there are plenty of activities for the whole family.

• If you’re looking for some outdoor time with a little something different, head to Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park. Not only is it a beautiful camping area, it is filled with unique and historical landmarks that will keep you entertained all weekend. There are 17 miles of trails on 1500 acres, so there is plenty to explore. On weekends in March thru November, cabins located along the plank road in the park’s center come to life with artisans producing pottery, quilts, cane chairs and art work. Perfect for a Mother’s Day activity. And the cherry on top? There is a local creamery on the grounds to grab a tasty scoop after a day exploring on a warm Spring day. We’re in!

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: Birkenstock Women’s EVA Arizona Sandals are made for adventures and will be her go-to all season long. Made from a high-quality, odor-neutral EVA foam, these sandals are easy to clean, lightweight enough to float, and the perfect slip-on for the lake or the campsite. 

Interested in a weekend of urban outings in the Magic City this Mother’s Day? We have what to do + where to eat in Birmingham. Check out our ideas here.

How about the best of both worlds? These ideas will get you enjoying nature while in the city limits + give you time for more activities. Check out our ideas here.

Get Mom something she will love to go with your fun-filled weekend or to show her you care from far away! Click here for the Top Gifts this Mother’s Day. We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup! #BeOutdoors